CBI files case against online portal NewsClick, conducts searches over alleged foreign funds' receipt

According to a CBI statement, NewsClick had received an unexplained export remittance of Rs 28.46 crore through four foreign entities in violation of FCRA provisions.

It has been alleged that there was an unexplained receipt of a foreign fund of Rs 9.59 crore by incorrect characterisation of the fund as FDI.

The agency claimed the director of the said company with his close associates had allegedly violated the provisions of FCRA, 2010.

The CBI alleged that the provisions of FCRA, 2010, prohibiting the acceptance of foreign contributions by a company engaged in the production and broadcast of audio-visual news or current affairs programme through any electronic mode and by any correspondent or columnist or writer, or owner of such company, were violated.

Searches were conducted at two locations in Delhi at the premises of the accused. The investigation is underway, it added.

Earlier this month, the Special Cell of Delhi Police filed a case under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and conducted raids at the residence of a number of journalists linked to NewsClick. After that police arrested its founder Prabir Purkayastha and Amit Chakravarty, in this connection.

A total of 37 male suspects were questioned at the premises, while nine female suspects were questioned at their respective places of stay, Delhi Police had said then.

Some digital devices and documents were reportedly seized and collected for further examination, police earlier said.

In a posting on X, NewsClick said: “The CBI is currently conducting search and seizure operations at the NewsClick office and the residence of our Editor-in-Chief. This is the fifth agency that is investigating us. We are cooperating with the authorities.”